DeWanna Bonner’s unexpected departure from the Indiana Fever in 2025 shocked fans and teammates alike, casting a spotlight on her exit from the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/basketball/wnba/”>WNBA team. The seasoned forward’s decision to leave midseason for “personal reasons” after only nine games raised questions about the circumstances behind her sudden exit. This article examines the fallout from DeWanna Bonner Indiana Fever exit, including insights from teammate Sophie Cunningham on the behind-the-scenes tensions.

DeWanna Bonner’s High-Profile Arrival and Early Departure

DeWanna Bonner, a six-time WNBA All-Star and champion, was the marquee signing for the Indiana Fever’s 2025 offseason, expected to be a veteran leader poised to boost the team’s championship ambitions. Fever fans embraced her arrival eagerly, especially after key roster moves including re-signing star Kelsey Mitchell, acquiring Sophie Cunningham via trade, and signing experienced veterans Natasha Howard and Bonner herself. These moves propelled Indiana into conversations about contending for the title.

However, after just nine games, Bonner abruptly stepped away from playing, citing personal reasons. Her absence for five games sparked concern among supporters, but the uncertainty deepened when Front Office Sports reporter Annie Costabile revealed sources indicated Bonner had no plans to return to the Fever roster. Bonner later confirmed her intent to leave with a statement expressing that the fit with the team “did not work out” and she appreciated the organization granting her request to move on at this stage of her career.

The Fever eventually waived Bonner, who unsurprisingly signed with the Phoenix Mercury shortly after. This turn of events marked a dramatic shift for the Fever’s season and roster plans.

“Breaking: 6x-time All-Star and WNBA champ DeWanna Bonner is signing with the Indiana Fever, sources told ESPNBy re-signing Kelsey Mitchell, trading for Sophie Cunningham, and signing experienced vets Bonner & Natasha Howard, the Fever have catapulted into the title conversation” — Alexa Philippou, Reporter

“… Despite our shared goals and excitement heading into the season, I felt the fit did not work out and I appreciate the organization’s willingness to grant my request to move on, particularly at this point in my career. …” — DeWanna Bonner, Player

Sophie Cunningham Opens Up About Bonner’s Departure

While the Fever’s front office and Bonner kept much of the discussion private, Fever guard Sophie Cunningham shed light on the situation during an August 5 episode of the Show Me Something podcast. Cunningham acknowledged Bonner’s talent and status but expressed disappointment over how Bonner handled her exit from the team.

Cunningham described Bonner as “a hall-of-famer” and

“a hell of a basketball player,”

but also noted Bonner was unhappy after joining Indiana. Cunningham emphasized that she respects individual happiness but voiced frustration at the lack of communication Bonner showed toward her teammates.

When asked if Bonner had provided any explanation directly, Cunningham indicated none were given, saying in response to a co-host’s question, “No? Not even privately?” This silence affected the team dynamic and left players feeling disregarded.

Cunningham said she was still rooting for Bonner’s success but wished the former Fever star had been more professional and considerate in her departure. She pointed out that a simple message to teammates acknowledging the situation and wishing them well would have been appropriate.

“I like [DeWanna Bonner]…she’s a hall-of-famer, she’s a hell of a basketball player,” — Sophie Cunningham, Indiana Fever Guard

“But she got to Indiana and she really wasn’t happy. And like I want people to be happy, so that’s why I’m kinda like neutral on this one.” — Sophie Cunningham, Indiana Fever Guard

“I’m still rooting for her, like I want her to end her career and be happy,” — Sophie Cunningham, Indiana Fever Guard

“But I also think that like it’s ok to be professional about it and like send a text to your teammates…like ‘sorry this didn’t work out, good luck…’ you know what I mean? There’s a way to handle that.” — Sophie Cunningham, Indiana Fever Guard

Fan Reaction and Impact on the Fever’s Season

Bonner’s return to Indiana as a Phoenix Mercury player stirred significant reactions from Fever supporters, many of whom expressed disappointment and confusion over how the departure unfolded. The abruptness and lack of communication left a lasting impression on the fanbase and created tension within the team’s community.

Fortunately for the Fever, the situation ultimately led to roster adjustments that strengthened the team. With Bonner gone, Indiana reorganized effectively and maintained momentum through the rest of the season, continuing to compete strongly in the league.

The controversy surrounding DeWanna Bonner Indiana Fever exit serves as a notable example of the challenges teams face when integrating star veterans and managing midseason roster disruptions. It also highlights the importance of clear communication and professionalism in maintaining team cohesion amid difficult transitions.